in consequence of the unfavourable information lately received as to our Commercial prospects in that quarter.
Foreign Office Braid of Trade
S. Mist
in
I have the honor to be With the highest respect,
Sir
Your most obedient
Humble Servant,
John Benn
No 12 ap
Hong Kong
February 1, 1856
My dear Sir,
I hope you'll forgive me if with reference to the Colony whose interest & importance are increasing day to day I've ventured to introduce a few cords upon your kind attention.
We have before us a bright futurity – our population is rapidly increasing, – the character of the population is improving. – great public works are in progress provided for by our own resources & I cannot but hope that the position & prosperity of the Colony will be a valuable auxiliary in reference to the great objects not only in China, but in circumjacent regions.
With a view to the future it is of consummate importance that appropriate functionaries should be nominated to the various offices. In this respect we are deplorably off. I shall soon be getting more shorn of any good government. Though the Chief Justice hangs on, he has not for many months been able to discharge his duties satisfactorily – but his salary is imperative & he will remain in the Colony until ordered away by his medical advisers. I anticipate however that Mr. Anstey will have
Under Sec. of State
Herman Merivale, Esq.
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